AMBITIOUS plans have been announced to improve shopping facilities in Newcastle city centre.

More than £20m will be poured into the Eldon Square shopping centre as city leaders bid to attract more big brand names to Tyneside.

The project will be jointly funded by Newcastle Council and Capital Shopping Centres who are longstanding partners in Eldon Square.

It is understood the total bill for improving ceilings, entrances and electrical systems will be in the region of £22m.

The council, which owns the freehold to the centre and lets it to CSC on a long-term lease, will contribute 40% of the costs.

It said its share of the bill would be met through “prudent” borrowing. It is expected costs will be met from rents.

Council leader Nick Forbes said the cash boost sent a positive message to businesses considering investing in Newcastle.

He said: “The city council has been working very hard to support the local economy, stimulate growth and create jobs by continuing to invest heavily in our city throughout the downturn.”

Footfall at Eldon Square has risen from 29 million in 2009 to 34 million in 2010.

The latest cash for the city’s retail sector comes after business improvement company NE1 announced a 90% year-on-year rise in the number of shoppers coming into Newcastle after 5pm on the back of the Alive After Five initiative which offers free parking and longer opening hours.

The £22m injection in Eldon Square is the latest boost for shopping in Newcastle.

World-renowned brands including Jaeger and Pretty Green have moved into Grainger Street. Plans for a £10m facelift of the Monument Mall, were approved last month.

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